Ken Calhoun

Kenneth H. “Ken” Calhoun, Sr., a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and Vietnam War veteran, passed away peacefully on September 22, 2024, in Nashville, Tennessee, at the age of 81.

Born on December 20, 1942, in Lyons, Georgia, Ken was known for his warm spirit, unwavering dedication, and deep love for Jesus, his family and country. He proudly served as a second lieutenant in the Big Red One division of the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, where he exemplified courage and leadership. His commitment to service shaped his character and left a lasting impact on those who knew him.

Upon returning home from Vietnam, Ken worked in the family’s business in Georgia before starting his own entrepreneurial ventures. In 1967, he met Norma Garmon from Nashville, and within six months boldly told friends that they were getting married at high noon on June 1. Norma did not know of those plans but happily “accepted” the proposal.

In 1977, Ken moved his family to Nashville to further his businesses. While most of his career was spent in sales, some of Ken’s most fulfilling work was serving and volunteering his time to the rehab of teens and adults with addictions. Ken and Norma spent over 16 years with Teen Challenge of Nashville. They also served their church family, Belmont Church in Nashville, during their 34 years as members, and hosted an untold number of friends in their home for fellowship, Bible study, and prayer.

After retiring, Ken drove for Uber and Lyft, where he told everyone who rode in his car about Jesus. He was known to look in the rear-view mirror and ask his passengers if they knew God’s Son and His saving grace.

Ken’s love of Jesus, his kindness, sense of humor, and stories about south Georgia will be profoundly missed by his family and friends.

Ken is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Norma G. Calhoun of Nashville; his children, Jeff Calhoun (Jeanne) of Alexandria, Louanne Staff (Robin) of Spring Hill, and Kenneth Calhoun, Jr., of Millington; his brother Michael Calhoun (Vicki) and sister Kathy Calhoun of Vidalia, Georgia; his grandchildren, Ethan Cord Calhoun (Melissa), Ashley Randolph (Justin), Genevieve Staff, and Taylor Fox (Haiden); and his cherished great grandchildren, Mila, Brooklyn, Savannah, Camden, Bronson, Keaton, and Anderson. He was preceded in death by his parents, Marvin H. Calhoun, Jr., and Myrtle (Powell) Calhoun.

A celebration of life service with military honors will be held on October 7, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at Belmont Church, 68 Music Square East, Nashville, 37203, and a burial at the Middle Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery, 7931 McCory Lane, Nashville, 37221, will follow at 1:00 p.m. 

Kenneth H. Calhoun, Sr. lived a life of integrity and love, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew him. He will forever be remembered for his devotion to Jesus and the profound impact he had on the lives of so many.